Brother and sister’s catering business hits the high street following £400,000 bank support

Aberdeenshire’s Skoff Catering, a family-run food firm from Dyce, is set for expansion following six figure funding from Royal Bank of Scotland.

Brother and sister Josh and Alex McKenzie, whose mobile catering business is well known in the area, have purchased The Cloggy House in Dyce Drive, a favourite in the town.

The young entrepreneurs, who are both still in their 20s, set up their business seven years ago with an ambition to work for themselves.

The pair grew up in an entrepreneurial family and have always dreamed of being their own bosses. Their father, Steve McKenzie, owns a print company in the local area and has supported Alex and Josh throughout their business journey.

Starting with a catering truck, they founded Skoff Catering with the goal of bringing great food to the people of Dyce, Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.

Since then, the duo have perfected their unique style of high-quality takeaway breakfasts and lunches, translating to sales that have quadrupled since launch in 2017.

However, this demand has resulted in a need for more resource, and following lending from Royal Bank of Scotland, will see them expand their operation.

They have acquired The Cloggy House, a favourite spot among locals. With the previous owners retiring they have decided to purchase a place which is something of a local institution.

Alex McKenzie, Co-Owner of Skoff, said: “This has been a dream of ours since we opened our little van nearly seven years ago. We have always sat near The Cloggy House and whilst we wouldn’t have wanted to take over before now, with the previous owners retiring and our business thriving, this felt like the perfect time to make the jump.  

“This deal has been invaluable in allowing us to take the next big step in our business model and we are determined to keep making these strides in the future. The bank team were so efficient and made the whole process a breeze. We cannot wait to keep making our signature food and bringing joy to our loyal customers who enjoy it.”

Tom Hyland, Relationship Manager at Royal Bank of Scotland, added: “It is great to be able to support young entrepreneurs, like Josh and Alex, in their ventures. Still just in their twenties, they have taken it upon themselves to create a thriving business and pursue the steps to really take it to the next level.

This is the sort of ambition we really value at Royal Bank of Scotland and we are truly excited to see where Skoff can take this business in the future.”